Iceland: Land of Fire and Ice
Iceland | 12 Days | FROM $18,490
departs September 5, 2027
Travel with Tim Zandee
Discover the raw beauty and dramatic landscapes of Iceland on a journey through some of the country’s most iconic regions. From the vibrant capital of Reykjavik and the black-sand beaches of Vík to the glacier lagoons of Höfn and the geothermal wonders of Mývatn, experience the extraordinary diversity of the Land of Fire and Ice. Continue north to the scenic fjords of Siglufjörður before concluding on the spectacular Snæfellsnes Peninsula, where glaciers, lava fields, volcanic peaks, and rugged coastlines create a fitting finale. Blending natural wonders, local culture, wildlife, and adventure, this immersive journey showcases the very best of Iceland.
Three moments you’ll never forget
Standing behind Seljalandsfoss as the waterfall thunders in front of you, with mist in the air and light shifting across the South Coast, is one of those rare travel moments where the landscape feels almost unreal.
Watching icebergs drift silently through Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, then stepping onto Diamond Beach where fragments of ice glitter against black volcanic sand, creates a striking contrast that feels almost otherworldly.
Out on the waters near Húsavík, scanning the horizon from a RIB boat as humpback whales surface nearby, is a powerful reminder of Iceland’s raw and living wilderness.
DAY 1
ARRIVAL IN REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND
Arrive in Reykjavík on early morning flights and transfer to your hotel for immediate check-in. Take time to rest after travel before an afternoon guided walk through the Grandi harbor district and the Harpa Concert Hall area. Enjoy an evening Welcome Dinner.
DAY 2
REYKJAVÍK / VÍK
Travel along Iceland’s South Coast, visiting Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the waterfall, and Skógafoss, one of the country’s most iconic cascades. Continue to Vík and explore Reynisfjara black sand beach, known for its basalt columns and sea stacks.
DAY 3
VÍK
Spend the day exploring the landscapes around Vík. Visit Reynisfjara and nearby basalt formations shaped by volcanic forces. Optional excursions include the Sólheimasandur plane wreck and the cliffs of Dyrhólaey, home to seabirds and wide coastal views. In the evening, there may be an opportunity to view the Northern Lights, conditions permitting.
DAY 4
VÍK / HÖFN
Travel across the vast glacial plains of Skeiðarársandur en route to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs drift through brilliant blue waters. Continue to Diamond Beach, where icebergs wash ashore on black volcanic sand.
DAY 5
HÖFN
Explore Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier. A private Zodiac excursion offers a close-up experience among floating icebergs on the lagoon. Later, visit Vestrahorn, where dramatic peaks rise above black sand beaches and tidal flats.
DAY 6
HÖFN / MÝVATN
Journey north through glacial landscapes, stopping at Goðafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods,” before arriving in the volcanic region of Mývatn. This remote area also offers excellent Northern Lights viewing conditions.
DAY 7
MÝVATN & HÚSAVÍK
Travel to Húsavík for a RIB boat whale watching excursion along the coast. Continue exploring the Mývatn region, including lava fields, pseudo-craters, and geothermal areas. Visit Aldeyjarfoss, known for its striking basalt columns. End the day with a relaxing geothermal bathing experience.
DAY 8
MÝVATN / SIGLUFJÖRÐUR
Drive west through Akureyri and along the scenic Tröllaskagi Peninsula to Siglufjörður. The route passes fjords, mountains, and small fishing villages that highlight Iceland’s northern coastal beauty.
DAY 9
SIGLUFJÖRÐUR
Explore the town’s rich herring history at the Herring Era Museum. Enjoy time at leisure in one of Iceland’s most picturesque coastal towns, with optional kayaking available. Evening at leisure with possible Northern Lights viewing.
DAY 10
SIGLUFJÖRÐUR / AKUREYRI / REYKJAVÍK / GRUNDARFJÖRÐUR
Travel to Akureyri for a short flight to Reykjavík, then continue by road to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Pass through lava fields, coastal cliffs, and fishing villages en route to Grundarfjörður.
DAY 11
GRUNDARFJÖRÐUR (SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA)
Explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature.” Visit Kirkjufell mountain, walk the coastal cliffs between Arnarstapi and Hellnar, and explore the black pebble beach of Djúpalónssandur. Farewell dinner in the evening.
DAY 12
GRUNDARFJÖRÐUR / REYKJAVÍK / DEPARTURE
Travel back toward Reykjavík and continue to Keflavík Airport for your onward flight.
Additional nights can be arranged for those wishing to extend their stay or better accommodate a morning flight departure the following day.
trip details
September 5, 2027 – September 16, 2027
DEPARTURE
Start in Reykjavík
End in Reykjavík
“I’ve long been fascinated by Iceland—the way its landscapes are shaped by light, weather, and constant change. There’s something about the intensity and unpredictability of those conditions that feels unlike anywhere else, where a scene can shift completely in a matter of minutes. I’m really looking forward to experiencing it for the first time alongside the group, taking time to respond to those moments as they unfold, and seeing how light and atmosphere influence the way experience each place, without forcing anything—just letting the landscape lead the way. I hope you’ll join me.”
— Tim Zandee
Where You’ll Stay
Guaycapi Birding Lodge
Nestled in the northwest Andean cloud forest, this cozy lodge features forest trails and hummingbird feeders that attract a wide variety of species. Comfortable cabins with private bathrooms and balconies overlook the lush valley.
San Isidro Lodge
Situated on the eastern slopes of the Andes, this lodge is surrounded by a private cloud forest reserve with trails and feeders. Cabins are comfortable, and the area supports an impressive variety of hummingbirds, antpittas, and other foothill species.
Wildsumaco Lodge
A remote lodge in the Amazonian foothills, offering forest trails and feeders that attract hummingbirds, tanagers, and other foothill species. Its secluded setting provides immersive access to one of Ecuador’s most biodiverse regions.
More Detail
PRICING
Per Person: $18,490
Add $5,990 for a single room
DEPOSIT
$2,000
GROUP SIZE
12 travelers
What’s Included
Ready to Go?
Save your spot on our expedition by booking now.
September 5, 2027 – September 16, 2027